Google has introduced two new features on its Android devices with the aim of increasing the safety and protection of users, especially in emergency situations. These functions are the Emergency Location Service (ELS) and the Earthquake Warning System.
The Emergency Location Service allows emergency services to quickly access the user’s exact location if needed.
On the other hand, the Earthquake Alert System sends advance notifications to users when nearby seismic movements are detected. Both functions are valuable tools that seek to protect users and provide greater peace of mind in critical moments.
The Emergency Locator Service (ELS) is a technological tool used by emergency and response services to more accurately locate people who call the emergency number for help. This tool provides greater geographic accuracy, which facilitates quick intervention and attention to those who need assistance in critical situations.
The Earthquake Alert System is a tool that uses cell phones to alert people about an earthquake. This system is especially useful in areas or provinces with high seismic activity, such as Mendoza and San Juan.
Camila Domínguez Posada, Director of Android Partner Development at Google, explained in detail how these new tools work. These tools have the potential to help around 3 billion people worldwide and 30 million people in Argentina.
It is important to point out that both functions are present in most Android cell phones, regardless of the version they have.
Emergency Location Service (ELS)
Camila explained that on Android mobile devices, this function is activated when an emergency call is made (911 in Argentina). Thanks to the combined use of data, GPS, cellular, Wi-Fi and sensors, emergency services can now locate callers and text messages in critical situations faster and more accurately. This technology allows for a more effective response to emergencies.
In this way, the location is determined on the device and this tool is activated only when the user makes a call or sends a message to an emergency number (911). In Camila’s words, “this function reduces the search radius from 14 kilometers to 6 kilometers and is up to 3,000 times more accurate than triangulation using cell towers”. With this function, emergency services will be able to locate a person in trouble more quickly and efficiently.
To be able to use this application, it is essential to have a signal to make the call. Personally, those who speak to you have already witnessed this new tool. When calling 911, the call interface is different and tells you that your location is being automatically sent to the authorities.
Google Earthquake Alert System
Since the beginning of the year, users have access to both the Earthquake Alerts feature and the ELS. However, as few users knew of its existence, when earthquakes occurred, many people were surprised to realize that Google had sent warnings about the tremor.
On most social media, many people commented that they received the earthquake warning first and then felt it physically. However, specialist Domínguez explained that this function does not have the ability to experience physical sensations, as this is impossible. This feature uses the accelerometers present in over 3 billion Android devices worldwide. Its purpose is to detect the vibration and speed of seismic movements, in order to alert users who are nearby.
By using Android phones as mini seismometers, notifications of two different types can be received when earthquakes with a magnitude of 4.5 or higher are detected. This makes phones a valuable tool for early detection of seismic movements.
In order for the phones to be able to detect earthquakes and earthquakes through the Google app, they need to be placed on a flat surface, connected to an electrical source and connected to the internet.
Earthquake alerts are created for the purpose of reporting light seismic movements (level III or IV on the IMM scale). In addition, they provide data on the magnitude and location of the tremor. These alerts are based on your phone’s current volume and vibration settings, which means they will adjust to your preferences. Also, it’s important to note that they will respect the “Do Not Disturb” setting if it’s on, so you can enjoy a quiet moment without interruptions.
When Android users are expected to experience a tremor of Grade V or higher on the IMM scale, action alerts are issued. These alerts provide full-screen instructions and a loud sound on the phone to ensure users are informed and take action.
Also, by clicking on notifications, people can find recommended steps to stay safe after an earthquake. It is important to note that these alerts are updated in real time if the earthquake intensity increases or decreases.
How to Activate Google’s Earthquake Alert Tool
To activate the Earthquake Alerts feature on your Android smartphone via Google, you need to follow the steps below:
1. Access the Google app on your Android device.
2. Go to app settings by tapping the menu icon located in the top left corner.
3. Scroll down and select “Settings”.
4. In the setting options, find and select “Notifications”.
5. Under the “Alerts” section, you will find an option called “Seismic Alerts”. Activate this option by sliding the switch to the right.
After following these steps, you will get instant alerts about upcoming earthquakes right on your Android phone. These alerts can help you prepare and take the necessary steps to protect your safety and well-being during an earthquake event.
With information from:
https://www.fayerwayer.com/
https://ensedeciencia.com/